Hamantaschen with Jam Filling – Sweet, Festive, and Perfectly Portioned

These Hamantaschen with Jam Filling are a delightful take on the traditional triangular cookies, known for their tender dough and jewel-like jam centers. Lightened up and easy to make, they’re perfect for Purim or anytime you want a sweet, fruity bite. With a buttery yet soft pastry and your choice of jam filling, each cookie is a bite of nostalgia and joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive & Fun – A beautiful, traditional cookie that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Fruity & Sweet – The jam filling adds bright flavor and color to every bite.
Lightened Up – Made with smart ingredient swaps to keep them balanced yet indulgent.
Customizable – Use your favorite jam flavors or even try poppyseed or chocolate filling.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp light butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sweetener (or sugar)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the filling:

• ½ cup fruit jam (such as apricot, raspberry, or strawberry)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat light butter and sweetener until creamy. Add egg, applesauce, and vanilla, and mix well.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

2. Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

3. Roll & Cut
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut into circles using a 3-inch cutter.

4. Fill & Shape
Place 1 teaspoon of jam in the center of each circle. Fold edges up to form a triangle, pinching corners tightly to seal.

5. Bake & Cool
Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden. Cool on a wire rack.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Calories: 85
Protein: 1g
Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: <1g

Tips for Success

• Chill Well – Cold dough is easier to roll and helps cookies hold their shape.
• Don’t Overfill – A little jam goes a long way; too much can cause leaking.
• Mix & Match Jams – Use a variety of colors and flavors for a beautiful platter.

Why This Recipe Works

Using applesauce and light butter keeps the dough tender and lower in fat while preserving that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Jam provides sweetness and a pop of bright flavor, making each bite both beautiful and delicious.

These Hamantaschen with Jam Filling are a wonderful way to celebrate tradition while enjoying a lighter, more mindful treat. Sweet, simple, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for sharing at a celebration or enjoying with a cup of tea.